What chest and waist measurements mean

Short answer: Chest measurement is the circumference around the widest part of the chest. Waist measurement is the circumference at the narrowest part of the stomach. Both are used to choose a size, the chest for tops and the waist for bottoms.

What the chest measurement is

Measure the chest around the widest part of the upper body, usually just under the arms and across the chest. The tape should sit level all the way round, including across the back, where it tends to slip. Stand relaxed and breathe normally. Holding your breath gives a larger number than the one your clothes need to fit.

The chest decides the top

Sizes for T-shirts, tank tops and sweaters are based on the chest. If the size is too small, the fabric pulls across the back when you reach forward. If it is too large, fabric hangs loose under the arms. Compare your measurement with the size guide on each item, for example a bamboo tank top for men.

What the waist measurement is

Measure the waist around the narrowest part of the stomach, which for most people is just above the navel. Many men wear their waistband lower than that, so it helps to also measure where the waistband actually sits. Keep the tape snug against the skin without pressing in.

The waist decides the bottoms

Underwear, briefs and sweatpants follow the waist, because the waistband holds everything in place. A waistband in the right size lies flat without rolling and leaves no red marks. If it is too large, the underwear slides down during the day. See the styles and sizes in bamboo boxers.

When the two do not match

Many people do not fit one size on both measurements. With a broad chest and a narrow waist, choose the top by the chest, because that is where the fabric needs room. The waist can sit a little looser without looking wrong. For bottoms, the waist matters most. See the fits in all men's clothing.

Stretch gives some leeway

Fabric with elastane gives a few centimetres and follows the body. That makes it easier to get the size right when you are between two sizes. Fabric without stretch has no such margin. Always check what an item is made of before choosing the smaller or the larger of two sizes.

How to get a reliable measurement

Use a soft tape measure, not a folding ruler. Stand in front of a mirror so you can see that the tape is level all the way round. Measure two or three times and use the number that repeats. It also helps to have someone hold the tape at your back, where it is hard to see.

Measure again over time

Bodies change, and a measurement from several years ago may not be right today. Measure again if clothes in your usual size start to feel different. Write the numbers down somewhere you can find them, such as on your phone, so you have them ready next time you shop.

Frequently asked questions

Where exactly is the chest measured

Around the widest part, under the arms, with the tape level all the way round. Stand relaxed and breathe normally while you measure.

Should you measure with clothes on

Measure over your underwear. Extra layers such as a shirt or a sweater give a measurement that is too large, and the top you choose will end up too big.

What if the measurements point to two sizes

Choose by the larger measurement and check whether the fabric has enough stretch to give in the other place. A little room is easier to live with than tight fabric.